Elk Grove, Calif.— The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District announced that more evidence of West Nile virus activity has been detected in widespread areas throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties as 24 mosquito samples and 3 birds tested positive for the disease today. “The extremely hot temperatures of the last few days have rapidly accelerated the production of mosquitoes and West Nile virus is on the rise putting the public at a higher risk” said David Brown, District Manager.

The increased West Nile virus activity comes at a time when many will be enjoying the outdoor activities this holiday weekend and the District reminds the public to take protective measures against mosquitoes. “Many will be participating in family BBQ’s and watching fireworks around dusk, a time when mosquitoes are most active. We urge you to wear an effective repellent to prevent mosquito bites. All it takes is one bite from an infected mosquito to get the disease,” said Brown. The Center for Disease Control recommends using an insect repellent that contains the active ingredients DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or the plant based Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Always follow label directions when applying repellent.

Along with an increase in West Nile virus activity, two new invasive and disease-carrying mosquitoes are now posing health threats to California residents. These are the Yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti ) and the Asian Tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) . While these mosquitoes have not yet been found in the District area, both mosquitoes are capable of transmitting dengue fever (known as breakbone fever), yellow fever and chikungunya.

In response to the recent WNV findings, the District has increased its surveillance and started ground fogging around areas where positive mosquitoes and birds have been found. For current information about any treatments planned, please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net. Residents may also subscribe to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code. To sign up go to Spray Notifications on the website.

2013 West Nile virus activity update:

Sacramento County: 18 dead birds and 58 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus to date. 1 human case has been reported by the California Department of Public Health.